The family and former colleagues of a 30-year-old solicitor have paid tribute to her after she died following a car crash. Emily Thornton-Sandy died last week, six days after she was involved in a collision in south Wales.
Thornton-Sandy was an asbestos specialist for national firm Thompsons Solicitors working from its offices in Cardiff and Llanelli. In addition to her work, she tirelessly supported asbestos victim support groups in Wales, including Asbestos Awareness and Support Cymru, as well as Mesothelioma UK.
She earned her law degree from Cardiff University, joining Thompsons initially as a support assistant in its asbestos team while studying for her Legal Practice Course at Swansea University, then becoming a trainee solicitor in 2017 and qualifying into the Welsh asbestos team in 2020.
In a statement, Clare Mellor, chief executive of Thompsons Solicitors, said: ‘The tragic loss of our friend and colleague, Emily Thornton, deeply saddens everyone at Thompsons. Her passing has affected us all, and we are united in mourning a remarkable young lawyer who left an indelible mark on our firm and the people she helped.
‘Emily was a brilliant and compassionate asbestos lawyer. Her natural empathy and dedication to those affected by asbestos-related illnesses, coupled with the fact she was a technically gifted and highly able lawyer, made her an invaluable part of our team. She combined immense sensitivity with an unyielding commitment to justice, embodying the qualities essential to support clients through challenging times.
‘Her work gave hope to those facing devastating situations, and her impact is best reflected by what her clients thought of her and the comfort she provided.’
One client praised her hard work and support, describing her dedication as ‘outstanding’ and expressing heartfelt gratitude, signing off by calling Emily a ‘star’.
Emily’s husband Stuart said in a statement: ‘This still feels unreal and none of us can take it in. Emily was kind, compassionate, and had so much more to give. She used her intelligence in her work as a solicitor, where she strove to help others affected by industrial disease.
‘Emily loved literature and was passionate about her house plants. Her passing has left a hole in our lives which can never be filled. I wake up every morning in disbelief at the fact that I will never see her smile again. Emily deserved a long and happy life, and the thought of what happened to her that day brings the greatest pain to all those who love her.’
Thornton-Sandy had been driving home following a vet appointment for her dog Scout, who also died following the collision.
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